After first visiting the terminal while still in school, Maria Eduarda Machado turns long-standing admiration into the start of her professional journey
Many people come into a port as part of their daily routine. Others arrive without realizing it could become a new path in life. That was the case for Maria Eduarda Machado, who lives on Ilha da Madeira in Itaguaí. Over the years, she closely followed part of Porto Sudeste’s journey and growth in the region.
Duda always took part in activities promoted by the company, both at school and at Casa Porto. “I was always involved in the projects. I took part in the activities of the Hortas program, the Children’s Day and Christmas celebrations. I was also part of Território na Lente, where we learned how to use photography to show how we see the place where we live,” she recalls.
But it was during a visit by students from Elmo Baptista Coelho Municipal School to the terminal, eight years ago, that she got a close-up look at how Porto Sudeste operates. In that moment, something clicked for the student. From then on, she began to dream of one day being part of that environment. It became a goal that would go on to shape her choices, her path, and her professional preparation over time.
At the time of the visit, she toured the facilities as a guest, observing structures that, from the outside, seem far removed from everyday life in the city — railcar dumpers, conveyor belts, large yards, the constant movement. “That whole experience sparked a desire in me to be part of the operation. I was fascinated by the entire process, the pier, the arrival of the ships, and especially the railcar dumper.”
Between explanations and new impressions, the experience left a mark that went far beyond a simple field trip. She didn’t know it yet, but that day was already sketching out a possible future. Today, that future has arrived as a gift. At the beginning of May, the 21-year-old production engineering student began her journey as an intern in Maintenance Planning and Control (MPC), working in the materials area. Her responsibilities include updating and monitoring work orders, checking the availability of materials in stock, and supporting the weekly scheduling of activities. The place she once visited has now become part of her everyday life, in a routine of learning and hands-on professional experience.
“I’m receiving this opportunity with a great deal of gratitude and a very strong sense of commitment. I’m motivated to learn through practice, grow steadily, and contribute with dedication at every stage of this journey. This moment represents not only a personal achievement, but also the beginning of a phase of major development, in which I want to absorb as much knowledge as possible and give back with effort and responsibility for everything I’ve been given the chance to experience,” she says.
For years, Porto Sudeste’s Visitor Program has welcomed schools, local residents, associations, and workers’ family members. For those who take part, the experience is unique and goes far beyond a tour of the operational areas — it becomes a point of reference, a memory, and sometimes even a life-changing decision. In Eduarda’s case, it opened the door to a new professional perspective.
INFORMATION
Visits to Porto Sudeste take place on Friday mornings, in groups of up to 24 people. Visits must be scheduled in advance by calling 0800 942 3135. To participate, visitors must be at least 8 years old and present a valid ID.
